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SCPI Commands HMF series
Remote Control
3
Basics
SCPI Programmers Manual
1 Basics
This chapter provides basic information on operating an instrument via remote control.
1.1 Remote Control Interfaces
For remote control, RS-232 / USB (standard interface HO720), Ethernet / USB (optional interface
HO730) or GPIB (optional interface HO740) can be used. The optional interfaces replaces the RS-
232 / USB HO720 interface module on the rear panel.
NOTICE
Within this interface description, the term GPIB is used as a synonym for the IEC/IEEE
bus interface.
SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) SCPI commands - messages - are
used for remote control. Commands that are not taken from the SCPI standard follow the SCPI
syntax rules.
NOTICE
The end character must be set to linefeed (LF) or carriage linefeed (CR-LF).
1.1.1 RS-232 Interface
If you use classic RS-232 you do not need any driver. In order to set the interface parameter at
the HMF, please press the button MENU at the front panel and choose the menu item INTER-
FACE. Make sure the RS-232 interface is chosen. The menu item PARAMETER opens a menu
where you can set and save all parameter for the RS-232 communication. Setting of the RS-232
must fit the setting of the corresponding PC COM port.
In general, there are exist two options for the RS-232 communication: with or without interface
handshake. If you are working without handshake you have to integrate appropriate delays
between the commands to make sure that all commands are executed correctly (approx. 50ms
to 100ms). Without handshake you can have the problem that the interface buffer can overflow
(e.g. missing commands). If you are working with interface handshake (set on both sides, HMF
and PC) you don‘t need to integrate delays.
In the interface settings of the HMF you can set the interface handshake (button MENU). If you
have a look into the menu item INTERFACE you can choose the menu item HANDSHAKE. There
you can find the items NONE or CTS/RTS. CTS/RTS means the activation of the interface hands
-
hake. Please note that you choose the same settings in your appropriate software.